Best Huniño 2014 song on trusting Holy Child

CEBU, Philippines - Second time is the charm for the composer of the best song in the 8th Huniño (Huni Halad Alang Kang Señor Santo Niño) held at the Basilica del Sto. Niño Pilgrim Center Wednesday night.

 “Kay Ikaw Misaad” bested 11 other finalists to be proclaimed as the grand champion, while with Jose Gomora Jr., who interpreted the winning piece, also bagged the best interpreter award in just his first time to join the contest.

The song talked about trusting in the Holy Child and His promise to protect the faithful.

Composer Neil Salarda said the plight of the Yolanda victims was his inspiration in making the song, whose lyrics were made by John Peterson Villarin. 

Salarda, who won the championship in his second attempt, said they intended “Ikaw ang Misaad” to give hope to those who were badly affected by Yolanda and for them to put their trust on the Sto. Niño.

Gomora, on the other hand, was ecstatic that he was picked as best interpreter.

“First time gyud ni nako ug wala gyud ko mag-expect nga makadaog ko sa (for me to join and did not expect to win as) best interpreter,” he said.

The song “Pag-ampo,” arranged by Nendel Endrina and composed by Rene Campomanes, who interpreted it with Danica Caballes and Medi Baculpo, grabbed second place.

Third place was won by “Viva Sto. Niño,” which Endrina likewise arranged, Jundel Bacalso composed and “The Vow Singers” interpreted.

It rained right after the doxology performed by the Sto. Niño Choir. It, however, did not affect the crowd, which swelled in number as the event progressed.

Guest performers include singer Maria Donna, who mesmerized everyone by singing some of Whitney Houston’s greatest hits, and celebrity singer Luke Mejares.  (FREEMAN)